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While a number of people support feminism, they are reluctant to be called feminists. Here's why it makes no sense to dislike being called a feminist!
While a number of people support feminism, they are reluctant to be called feminists. Here’s why it makes no sense to dislike being called a feminist!
Feminism is often heavily criticised for being a concept that makes women feel like they are being suppressed by men. Honestly, this is something that is absolutely false. So, even women who ‘think’ that they believe in the equality of both the genders, often prefer to say “I’m NOT a Feminist”.
Now, this is all real crap! The people who say ‘We are not feminists’ don’t even know the real meaning of feminism.
Feminism is the advocacy of the equality of the sexes. It does not seek exploitation and harassment of men by women in any field as several ‘intellectuals’ think!
Feminism only seeks to eradicate the violence against women and their poor treatment by their male counterparts wherever it is happening. I don’t see demanding equal rights and opportunities for women as something disgusting. And thus I to call myself a feminist.
Let’s see a little bit more about feminism and how it has been misunderstood by people around the world.
Feminism seeks to achieve the political, economic, personal, and social equality of BOTH the sexes, not just females. Societies around the world often give exclusive rights and privileges to men (like standing up for themselves without being branded as being ‘loud’ and ‘bossy’, doing what they love to do, not being responsible for bringing up the kids and many more!). At the same time, women, in general, are treated unfairly.
Feminism fights against gender stereotypes and seeks equal educational and professional opportunities for women. Feminists work for women’s rights, like the right to work, to remove the gender pay gap, to get an education, to have equal rights and respect within marriage, and to have paid maternity leave. Now you guys decide for yourself is it asking too much for women? Getting equal rights, opportunities, status, and respect for both the genders are all that the Feminists want. I don’t think it’s too much.
Here are some popular quotes on Feminism by some of the strongest and most intellectual women around the world which will give you a better insight into what Feminism actually stands for!
“If you stand for equality, you are a Feminist. Sorry to tell you.” ~ Emma Watson.
“Keep fighting for gender equality even if it makes people uncomfortable.” ~ Michelle Obama
“I myself have never been able to find out precisely what feminism is: I only know that people call me a feminist whenever I express sentiments that differentiate me from a doormat.” ~ Rebecca West
“Feminism is not a dirty word. It does not mean you hate men. It does not mean you hate girls that have nice legs and a tan, and it does not mean you are a bitch or a dyke, it means you believe in equality.” ~ Kate Nash
“A huge part of being a feminist is giving other women the freedom to make choices you might not necessarily make yourself.” ~ Lena Dunham
“Feminism is the radical notion that women are human beings.” ~ Cheris Kramarae
“A feminist is anyone who recognises the equality and full humanity of women and men.” ~ Gloria Steinem
“Feminism isn’t simply about being a woman in a position of power. It’s battling systemic inequities…” ~ Jessica Valenti
“Feminism is not just about women; it’s about letting all people lead fuller lives.” ~ Jane Fonda
“My idea of feminism is self-determination, and it’s very open-ended: every woman has the right to become herself, and do whatever she needs to do.” ~ Ani DiFranco
“I’m a feminist. I’ve been a female for a long time now. It’d be stupid not to be on my own side.” ~ Maya Angelou
“I’d like every man who doesn’t call himself a feminist to explain to the women in his life why he doesn’t believe in equality for women.” ~ Lousie Brealey
I hope the women (who believe in the equality of both the sexes and consider themselves a supporter of a fair chance for both the genders) aren’t offended when someone calls themselves a feminist. After all, feminism is all about equality and if you believe in fairness and equality for both men and women then you must not hate feminism.
Say it proudly ‘I’m A Feminist I believe in Gender Equality!’
A version of this was first published here.
Picture credits: Pixabay
Deeksha Tripathi is a Psychology Lecturer and an author. She is also pursuing a Diploma in Psychological Counselling. Having a background in Psychology and a love for writing makes her writings helpful for people to read more...
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